Ingredients
6 mozarella sticks
6 slices large salami or pepperoni
1 c. all-purpose flour
2/3 c. cornmeal
2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
3 tbsp. granulated sugar
1 tsp. kosher salt
1 tsp. dried oregano
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1 c. buttermilk
1 large egg
1 c. panko bread crumbs
Vegetable oil
Marinara, for serving
Freshly grated Parmesan, for serving
Crushed red pepper flakes, for serving
Preparation
Step 1Skewer mozzarella sticks with long wooden skewers. Wrap one slice pepperoni around each mozzarella stick. (If using thicker pepperonis, roll tightly with a small piece parchment paper to secure pepperoni in place.) Arrange skewers seam side down on a small tray lined with parchment and freeze until solid, at least 2 hours.Step 2Place flour in a medium shallow bowl and coat frozen mozzarella sticks in flour, tapping off excess. Whisk cornmeal, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, salt, dried oregano, and garlic powder into the remaining flour.Step 3In a small bowl, whisk together buttermilk and eggs. Pour into dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Pour batter into a tall glass and let sit.Step 4In a large pot over medium heat, add enough oil to come halfway up the sides and heat to 350°. Place panko into a shallow bowl. Dip mozzarella sticks into batter until evenly coated, then roll in and cover with panko.Step 5Fry, in two batches, until golden, 4 to 5 minutes, turning as necessary. Use tongs to remove from oil and place on a paper towel lined plate. Repeat with remaining mozzarella sticks and batter.Step 6Serve with marinara sauce, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes.
Not a fan of the oil? Try these great air fryer recipes instead. If you made this recipe, let us know how you liked it and leave us a comment below!
